One thing I like to do before I go to bed is name at least ten things I’m grateful for that day. No matter what that day brings I can always find something to be grateful for. This is a daily choice. We can focus on the negative or the many blessings we receive.
Gratefulness has many health benefits also. Robert Emmons the author of Thanks!: How the New science of Gratitude Can Make You Happier says, “Those that practice grateful thinking reap emotional, physical, and interpersonal benefits. They also have fewer illness symptoms.
It is amazing to me that there is now science to back up what God has said all along. Proverbs 17:22 reads, “A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones” NIV
Here are fifteen things I’m grateful for this week:
My wonderful toy poodle Toby. He always makes my day!
My stepmom’s successful brain surgery.
My parents and their support.
My son’s phone call from Mexico. My sixteen year old had the opportunity to go to a resort in Cabo San Lucas with his aunt, uncle, and cousin. I wasn’t expecting a phone call from him because of the expense, but was pleasantly surprised when he called me on Sunday. He said he was having a great time.
My son is coming home from Mexico today!
My daughter being home from college for the summer, and helping me tremendously with errands and house work.
My kids new summer job working at a greenhouse
A Great Massage
A friend of mine told me about a massage therapist that comes to the house at no extra charge and the prices are very reasonable. She has all kinds of services. I’ve never had anyone come to the house. This sounds heavenly!
The kids I babysit. Now that my kids are older I love spending time with the young children I babysit. They always make me feel young again!
When I babysat the other day we were sitting on the front porch, and all of a sudden I saw a mother bird land on top of the wreath that was hanging on the front of the house. I kept my eye on it, and then I saw two little beaks open wide for their breakfast. The picture above shows one of the little birds straining his neck. Believe it or not I had never seen baby birds up that close. I began snapping pictures with my phone. Just the sight of them made me feel a bit better!
I am always grateful for music. I am amazed at the power music has over me. Whether it’s a classical piece or an inspirational song it helps me relax and take the focus off my problems.
I am thankful for crafting. I usually choose simple and inexpensive crafts. I love creating something new!
My deck out back. I love spending time relaxing outdoors. I love swinging on the swing that once belonged to my grandparents. There’s something so relaxing about swinging back and forth. Sometimes when I am physically depleted I actually lay down on it . I also have a table with an umbrella where I like to do my devotions in the morning.
Summer weather. Summer has always been my favorite season.
What are you grateful for this summer?
A spirit of gratitude is such a blessing. Today I’m thankful for the sunny skies that invite us to go outside for a swim!
Sarah Philpott recently posted…Acceptance in Infertility: 9 Untruths in the ‘Never Give Up’ Message | Guest Blog by Justine Froelker author of Ever Upward
I also do this daily so my list is somehow shorter. (lol!) It’s indeed wonderful to have a gratitude-attitude as we meditate not only on His word but also on His works in our life.
grateful for God – the weather….
Andi recently posted…You Can Save $5 When You Go Shopping!
Such a wonderful list of thankfuls!! I am grateful that my foot is healing, and my kids are healthy!! And for the sunshine that has been hiding for DAYS, finally poking through today!
Chris Carter recently posted…20 Truths about Life After Foot Ankle Surgery
I’m glad your ankle is feeling better! I’ll have to read your post. I sprained my ankle a little over two weeks ago and its still swollen.
I’m grateful to be holding a precious nursing baby right now. All too soon he’ll be grown. Thanks for sharing at the #homemattersparty. We’re glad to have you!
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Ahh! You enjoy that baby! Mine are now teenagers.
I like reading what others find grateful in their lives. I write a weekly Thankful Friday on this very topic. Simple joys are the best things to be thankful for. Have a wonderful Sunday. Linking with you from Small Victories.
I agree. Simple joys are the best!
Thank you for this wonderful post. Isn’t great that science is confirming God even when most are trying to deny Him. His presence will be known. I have learned that counting my blessings helps me focus more on God than on my problems. If He has blessed me this far, He will carry me the rest of the way. Thanks again for sharing.
Well said!
I’ve had been to two beautiful places for a vacay with 2 different group of friends. Summer is always fun. Hope you enjoyed yours.
Lux recently posted…Dance In The Rain
Oh I’m so glad to hear your stepmom’s surgery was a success, I wondered how she was doing. What a great list of things to be thankful for. I’ve been keeping a daily gratitude journal and I’m most thankful for an amazing vacation with hubby just the two of us (both for the great time we had and his parents who watched the kids). Thanks for sharing with Small Victories Sunday Linkup. Pinning to our linkup board and hope you found some great posts to visit this week!
Tanya @ Mom’s Small Victories recently posted…Small Victories Sunday Linkup {58}
There so much for us all to be grateful for if we take a minute to recognize it. Thanks for the reminder.
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What a lovely post! Lots to be grateful for, definitely, especially all the good family news.
I’d love to see you link this up at my weekly Gratitude and Goals linky 🙂